The Commission and EEAS issued a communication on 12 March on EU-China relations proposing that the EU takes a tougher approach towards its strategic partner and top trading partner. The paper proposed ten actions (see annex) urging China, described as a ‘systematic rival,’ to deal with the lack of reciprocity in economic relations and to act as a responsible stakeholder in tackling global challenges. The paper also raised sensitive issues such as human rights and the situation in the South China Sea.

The paper will be discussed at the March European Council which will also prepare guidelines for the EU-China summit set for 9 April in Brussels. Before then China’s foreign minister, Wang Yi, will attend the Foreign Affairs Council on 18 March.